Every three years, Austrian eyewear company Silhouette Group publishes a Sustainability Report, detailing the goals, achievements, and ongoing initiatives in responsible production.
— We take great pride in the certifications and progress we have already achieved—but our work doesn’t stop there, says Thomas Windischbauer, COO. We have made two key commitments that define our approach. Keeping our manufacturing in Austria is upholding the highest standards of quality, precision, and responsible production. It’s also about conserving natural resources, and continuously improving processes to minimise environmental impact and reduce waste.
Silhouette just launched what Windischbauer describes as its first “fully sustainable collection”, Clear Sky, aiming to break new grounds for the use of bio-based materials.
— At the heart of this innovation is SPX Green+, a revolutionary bio-circular material that transforms biological byproducts into high-performance eyewear—eliminating the need for additional cultivation areas and drastically reducing environmental impact. It achieves 100% substitution of fossil oil, moving beyond conventional plastics, reduces the carbon footprint by 60% compared to standard materials, and is produced using 100% renewable energy. It seamlessly merges sustainability, premium craftsmanship, and timeless design.
What have been the hardest challenges when creating it?
— The greatest challenge in eyewear design lies in integrating cutting-edge technology seamlessly—ensuring that every detail serves a functional purpose without compromising the elegance and minimalism that define our brand. Take our screwless hinges, for example: meticulously engineered for precision and durability, yet designed to remain subtle and unobtrusive. They don’t dominate the aesthetics; instead, they enhance the overall experience—offering effortless functionality with a refined, signature touch. We believe that the best technical solutions are the most minimalistic and refined—where form follows function in its purest expression. Every innovation is developed not just to perform, but to elevate aesthetics—ensuring that functionality and elegance exist in perfect harmony.
Traditionally, the eyewear industry has been perceived as conservative and slow-moving. According to Windischbauer, it’s shaped by its deep-rooted emphasis on functionality, precision craftsmanship, and timeless design.
— Unlike fashion sectors driven by rapid seasonal trends, eyewear demands a delicate balance between aesthetic appeal and technical innovation, resulting in longer development cycles. Additionally, consumers have historically viewed eyewear as an investment piece rather than a disposable fashion accessory, reinforcing a more stable and enduring approach to design and production.
— However, the industry is now at a turning point. Technological advancements are redefining what’s possible, accelerating innovation and expanding creative boundaries. Key developments driving this transformation include 3D printing, enabling unprecedented customisation and design flexibility, AI-driven personalisation, offering tailored fits and optimised lens solutions, and next-generation sustainable materials, reducing environmental impact without compromising performance.
— At the same time, there is a growing consumer demand for expressive, fashion-forward eyewear—pieces that celebrate individuality while maintaining high performance, comfort, and quality. The industry is evolving, and brands that embrace innovation, sustainability, and personalisation will lead the next chapter in eyewear.
What are the keys to becoming an even greener company?
— We prioritise high-quality, durable materials, including bio-based and bio-circular alternatives, to minimise environmental impact while ensuring exceptional longevity. Our signature lightweight designs further reduce resource consumption, and our energy-efficient, low-waste production facility in Austria that I mentioned adheres to the highest environmental standards.
— Beyond our products, we take proactive measures to reduce our environmental footprint, This includes generating our own green electricity through solar power, utilising in-house water recycling systems, allowing multiple reuses during production, continuously cutting CO₂ emissions through advanced efficiency measures, and achieving carbon-neutral eyewear production since September 2022 through rigorous offsetting.
And what are the keys for your industry as a whole to become a more sustainable one?
— To achieve true sustainability, a holistic approach is essential—one that extends far beyond materials to encompass every stage of the value chain, from design and production to logistics, packaging, and consumer use.
— Sustainability isn’t just about integrating eco-friendly materials; it requires a fundamental rethinking of how eyewear is conceived, manufactured, and worn.
This means:
- Prioritising bio-based and recycled materials while maintaining durability and performance.
- Implementing energy-efficient, low-waste production methods to minimise environmental impact.
- Optimising logistics and reducing packaging waste through responsible supply chain management.
- Encouraging a shift in consumer mindset—favouring high-quality, long-lasting eyewear over disposable, fast-fashion alternatives.
— The future of eyewear lies in a circular, responsible, and innovation-driven industry—one where sustainability is not an option, but the standard.
Driven by sustainability, technological advancements, and evolving consumer expectations, Windischbauer describes how the entire eyewear industry is undergoing a profound transformation.
— One of the most significant shifts is the growing demand for sustainable materials and ethical production. Consumers are no longer just looking for premium eyewear—they expect brands to align with their values. This means prioritising eco-friendly materials and responsible sourcing, enhancing transparency in manufacturing processes, and delivering products that combine luxury with sustainability.
— Technology is reshaping eyewear like never before. AI-driven personalisation and 3D printing allow for tailored designs and precision-fit frames, minimised material waste for a more sustainable supply chain, and seamless integration of aesthetics and functionality, optimising performance for modern lifestyles.
— Eyewear is also an expression of identity and the line between fashion and function is blurring. Eyewear has evolved from a necessity into a statement of innovation, individuality, and self-expression. Today’s consumers seek bold, design-forward frames that enhance both personal style and performance.
— Looking ahead, the future of eyewear lies in the fusion of sustainability, innovation, and timeless design. Brands that embrace this evolution—offering high-performance, responsible, and expressive eyewear—will define the next era of the industry, he concludes.
